If your general dentist has recommended that you call an endodontic provider about having a root canal performed, you’re far from alone. The American Association of Endodontists reports that more than 15 million root canals are performed every year – that’s more than 41,000 root canals per DAY.
Why is this procedure done so often to treat an injured or infected natural tooth? There are several reasons why root canals have become a treatment of choice.
Why Is A Root Canal Being Recommended For Me?
- Your dentist or endodontist has determined your natural tooth can be saved. With more than three-quarters of all Americans indicating a preference for saving a tooth over replacing it with an implant, your provider will likely lean in the direction of seeing if salvaging the tooth is possible with a root canal treatment.
- Root canal success rates are comparable with those of dental implants. In both situations, the treatments are successful more than 90 percent of the time.
- Modern root canals are safe, effective and cause little discomfort. Many times, patients come to an endodontist with an infected tooth that has damaged tissues that are causing discomfort. A root canal actually alleviates this discomfort, rather than causing more. Most patients experience about as much discomfort during a root canal as they would getting a cavity filled.
- Nothing can replace the look or function of a natural tooth. Artificial restorations such as dental implants have their advantages, but retaining a natural tooth through a root canal can ensure the tooth stays in your mouth for a lifetime.
“Root canals are neither exotic nor risky,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “Endodontists perform this health-enhancing procedure on a daily basis and can make your experience comfortable and stress-free.”
